what is an airstream land yacht

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The Airstream Land Yacht is One Trailer You Have to See

Steve Fennell
August 1, 2016

To strengthen the Land Yacht theme, Airstream consulted with Mauro Micheli, the acclaimed yacht designer for prestigious Riva Yachts

Airstream has an interesting history of building Special Edition models. In past years, they have offered the contemporary Eddie Bauer Edition as well as the rustic-themed Pendleton National Park Service Edition. One of the latest selective models to be conceived – and a departure from its other special trailer predecessors – is the Land Yacht 28, which was introduced in late 2014 and has achieved plenty of attention across the highways of North America.

Every special edition model that the company devises carries a distinct theme. What makes the Land Yacht so unique this time around is it was inspired by Airstream leaders of past and present – late company founder Wally Byam and current President and CEO Bob Wheeler as both share a passion for recreational sailing. As Byam inspired many traditional Airstream designs from his passion of travel – on and off the water over the years – Wheeler and his design team commemorated that passion into the Land Yacht 28.

The exterior of the Land Yacht.

To strengthen the Land Yacht theme, Airstream consulted with Mauro Micheli, the acclaimed yacht designer for prestigious Riva Yachts and co-founder of Oficinia Italian Design firm based in Italy. The results were the iconic Airstream profile on the outside with a clean, modern and stylish interior with several forms of function on the inside.

“The Land Yacht is unique as we teamed with Mauro Micheli,” said Bryan Melton, General Manager, Travel Trailers for Airstream, Inc. “With our engineering input, he and his team created the design elements. Our goal was to have a super clean, beautifully appointed interior with attention to every detail. For example, he designed the fridge and freezer to be concealed behind a padded panel, while the cooktop and sink in the galley are concealed with a wood enclosure and built-in aluminum back splashes. They are all hidden providing a refined appearance, yet are easily accessed when they need to be used.”

“Airstream’s Bryan Melton explained that only 45 Land Yachts were scheduled to be built when the model was first introduced. There are only 12 left in the market place across North America and the last one – number 45 – will be completed at the end of September.”

Other key appointments are found in the lavy. While it’s not uncommon for Airstream trailers to feature the shower and toilet/sink in separate areas of the unit, the Land Yacht has an all-encompassing lavy with the essential components in the same space – with fit and finish executed to the tiniest of detail. Another functional design includes the master bedroom. It comes complete with a power memory foam, pillow top queen mattress, plus under bed storage, however, the standard 30-inch flatscreen TV is cleverly located behind a two-way mirror allowing two common functions in one small area.

The all-encompassing head that includes a shower, sink, and toilet in one ideal location.

Some Land Yacht Standards Include:

• A powered solid wood dinette table* • Power stabilizers • A premium awning package • Comfortable, convertible seating • Power entry steps, • Induction cooktop • The Quietstream A/C unit* • Interior hardware* • A new bathroom design* (*Airstream Firsts)

“With its features, the Land Yacht has a heavy designer influence that makes it incredibly clean and unique with a strong yacht theme, while still making it functional, practical to use,” said Melton. “That’s really what it’s all about. Special editions are meant to take us outside our comfort zone allowing us to set new boundaries. The reward comes from our customers who are seeking something a little different, and our special edition models provide just that.”

Melton explained that only 45 Land Yachts were scheduled to be built when the model was first introduced. “We build only two a month and have since we began this Special Edition,” he explained. There are only 12 left in the market place across North America and the last one – number 45 – will be completed at the end of September.

The Land Yacht is available in two interior colors, Mocha (seen Here) and Polar (shown at top).

“The Land Yacht is kind of an ode to the olden days of Wally (Byam) with his dream and passion of travel, adventure and sailing,” explained Melton. “This model represents the most luxurious Airstream model, with fine detailing and design elements throughout. Once #45 rolls out of the factory, we will temporary suspend the famous Land Yacht badge.”

While Special Edition models from Airstream (including the Land Yacht) have a scheduled life span in the consumer marketplace, the influence and design that are incorporated into these models commonly stay within the Airstream brands. There were a series of features introduced in the Land Yacht, with the most popular being the Quietstream ducted A/C, which has become standard on all but the Sport Airstream models.

“It doesn’t come down to how many Special Edition units we sell, it’s about creating truly unique models that allow our team, and those we partner with a creative outlet to try new ideas.,” said Melton. “When you remove certain constraints, you allow engineers and designers to maximize their creativity. The results are truly special, like the Land Yacht, which continue to make strong statements within Airstream’s prolific history.”

If you have any questions about the company`s Land Yacht Design or wish to join in on the Airstream discussions with other owners be sure to go to AIRForums.com .

Specifications

Length: (exterior):28′ Width: (exterior): 8’5.5″ Height: (exterior) : 9’9″ (w/A/C) Interior width: 8′ 1″ Interior height: 6’6″ (w/A/C) Hitch weight: 842 lbs. (w/LP Batteries) Unit Base Weight: 6,586 lbs. (w/LP, Batteries) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: 8,200 Net Carrying Capacity: 1,614lbs. Fresh Water Tank: 39 gal. Gray Water Tank: 37 gal. Black Water Tank: 39 gal. Water Heater w/electronic ignition: 6 gal. Ducted Furnace: 25,000 BTU Sleeping Cap: 1-5

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Remembering Airstream’s fanciest trailer: the Land Yacht

The nautically-themed trailer is out of production, but its memory lives on in other Airstream models

Airstream trailers have been nicknamed a lot of things: the Silver Bullet, a Toaster-on-Wheels, and even the Silver Twinkie. But the now iconic American aluminum trailer—especially its largest models—has also been known as a “land yacht,” thanks to its high-end design reminiscent of the largest ships on the sea.

Airstream lived up to this title in 2014 when it debuted what it called “the most luxurious Airstream ever conceived.” The special edition model—the Land Yacht 28 —boasted three rooms and was designed with the help of Mauro Micheli, head designer at yacht design firm Officina Italiana Design , with cabinetry from the Italian firm Tecnoform.

All of that impressive pedigree meant one thing for the Land Yacht: It was fancy. Designed to resemble a luxury watercraft, the 28-foot trailer slept six and came with boat-deck plank flooring, LED lighting, and Corian countertops. The master bedroom boasted a pillow top queen mattress, a 30-inch flatscreen, and plenty of under-the-bed storage.

The technology and decor was also first class. A powered pedestal table moved the dining room table out of the way to free up space, and a powered outdoor awning made shade accessible. The interior came in two color options, dark wood and cream or a lighter wood with dark grey seating fabric.

The Land Yacht started at $146,362 and because it was a special edition model, it had limited production.

“When you remove certain constraints, you allow engineers and designers to maximize their creativity. The results are truly special, like the Land Yacht, which continue to make strong statements within Airstream’s prolific history.”

Not long after the debut of the Land Yacht, Airstream took many of that model’s favorite qualities and added them to the remodeled Classic trailer and their new line of Class-B luxury touring coaches . Today, the Land Yacht is still on the product page of Airstream’s website , but according to a reputable Airstream dealer in Colorado, the only Land Yachts still left for sale are in Canada.

For many Airstream fanatics, the Land Yacht will go down as one of the fanciest—and best designed—trailers in the company’s history. Take a 360-degree tour, over here .

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A Land Yacht, not just by name

-Mark Twain

Airstream over the years has used plenty of nautical names in our product lines. A few include Clipper, Land Yacht, Liner, Caravel, Trade Wind, and Flying Cloud. Even the interior structure walls are fashioned after bulkheads.

As a young man, Wally Byam was drawn to the seas. In joining the Seaman’s Union, he sailed the South Seas.

Tahiti in Wally’s first visit wass a tropical, uncultivated, natural paradise. Wally had fond memories from his youth and his first visit to Tahiti. Memories that he shared with others.

Prior to the 1959 Airstream Wally Byam African Caravan, he and his wife Stella sailed for Tahiti. Unlike today where there is jet service to the Polynesian Paradise, in 1958 Tahiti remained very similar to the first time Wally visited the islands.

This 1958 trip gave Wally a well-deserved vacation, prior to going to Africa.

Airstream’s benefits from Wally’s love in seafaring are many. Sleek construction parallel to the finest yachts, compactness utilizing every nook and cranny for comfortable living and storage.

Truly, Airstream is a Land Yacht. Yachts sail the oceans and Airstreams journey on the world’s byways and back roads.

Tags: Throwback Thursday , history

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2015 Airstream Land Yacht 28FB Review

Only one Land Yacht floorplan is available – the 28FB. It has an exterior length of 28’, exterior width of 8’5.5”, interior width of 8’1”, exterior height with A/C of 9’9”, and interior height with A/C of 6’6.5”. The Land Yacht 28FB has a hitch weight of 842 lbs, unit base weight of 6,586 lbs, gross vehicle weight rating of 8,200 lbs, and net carrying capacity of 1,614 lbs. For liquids, the Land Yacht has a fresh tank capacity of 39 gallons, black water tank capacity of 39 gallons, gray water tank capacity of 37 gallons, and water heater capacity of six gallons. As many as five people can sleep in the Land Yacht.

COMPARISON: Read our review of the 2014 Airstream Eddie Bauer Extended 27FB EB Review

Airstream trailers are designed for easy towing. Constructed with patented aerodynamic technology, the Land Yacht 28FB has a low center of gravity and deflects wind. Its semi-monocoque construction, also used for airplanes, means that its aluminum skin is stretched and riveted to the frame. This makes it lightweight and strong. The Land Yacht 28FB has an enclosed, insulated underbelly with heated holding tanks. Controlling the interior temperature is the Quietstream Climate Control system – a ducted air conditioning system that reduces noise.

To the outsider, the Land Yacht doesn’t actually resemble a yacht. But it does look like an Airstream, which means it’ll get you lots of attention on the road. The bullet-shaped trailer has alloy wheels, aluminum bumper with storage, and aluminum LP bottle cover. Its paint uses Rockguard Protection to prevent it from chipping, staining and scratching. Other niceties include exterior LP gas port and adapter, and exterior shower. An LED light is located on the power entry step. For safety and convenience the Land Yacht 28FB features exterior convenience lighting and a power hitch jack with a light. It also has power patio awning, power stabilizers, and solar pre-wiring.

Upon stepping inside, this Airstream has a noticeably yacht-type feel, which is accomplished through the curves and style of the furnishing and appliances. Whether you decide to go with the Mocha décor or Polar décor, the Land Yacht’s combination of textures, colors, and patterns is striking. Custom flooring looks beautiful with the padded, detail-stitched cabinetry. All the windows have shades and USB charging outlets are found throughout the cabin.

COMPARISON: Read our review of the 2014 Dutchmen Aspen Trail Travel Trailer 2730 RBS

Before stepping into the lounge, wipe your feet on the custom Airstream entrance mat. Ultraleather seating can be used as a dinette or a cozy sitting area. Villa sofa comes with integrated power recliners. You can kick back on your seat of choice and turn on your hideaway LED TV with mirror glass. Entertainment is available via the DVD, AM/FM radio and CD player. The space is equipped with cable, portable satellite hook-up and a digital TV antenna.

COMPARISON: Read our review of the 2014 Palomino Puma 28-DSBS

When you’re ready to call it a night, put your clothes back into the wardrobe, clean yourself up in the bathroom and crawl under your blankets. The bedroom comes with a pillow-top memory foam mattress, bedspread, bed pillows and throw pillows. If you like watching TV before bed then you’ll be thankful for the LED/HDTV. Storage space will not be an issue because you have two nightstands, under-bed storage bins and a large wardrobe.

The Airstream Land Yacht 28FB sells for around $150,000. For more information visit: http://www.airstream.com/ .

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Written by: Anna Sibal
07/02/2013 10:30 AM

The Airstream trailer is a verified American classic. It's the granddaddy of all RVs, recognized for its sleek, utilitarian design, famously embodied by its aluminum exteriors and rounded corners. It's one of the oldest and most beloved RV models around. It's the RV that our parents and grandparents probably rolled with in their RVing adventures.

Now, Airstream is showing that it could be the RV of choice for a new, younger, and technology-savvier generation of RVers, too. The proof: None other than the upcoming Airstream Land Yacht Travel Trailer .

The Airstream Land Yacht is exactly what its name suggests - a land-based beast fitted with the luxuries of a yacht. You can say that it's a marriage of iconic industrial design with Italian flair and style, as the Land Yacht is a joint project of Airstream, Tecnoform S.p.A. and Officinia Italiana Design. It differs from its predecessors in the breadth of its feature content and the attention paid to its interior. The classic Airstream silhouette is given contemporary enhancements and glamour by Tecnoform and Mauro Micheli.

The result promises to be a crowd-pleaser, a travel trailer that will appeal to both the younger set and their seniors. The chassis is 28 feet long, with an exterior that still bears the trademark Airstream sleekness, including its beloved aluminum rounded shell. The interior, however, is the real treat. Stepping inside a Land Yacht is like getting aboard the deck of a yacht.

The interior of the Airstream Land Yacht is streamlined and sophisticated. The bedroom is located at the front end of the RV; the queen-sized bed itself has a power lift that gives access to a hidden storage area. At the rear end is a dinette and social area, with seats covered with plush Ultraleather. Amidships is the bathroom and the galley kitchen, the latter having a surface that can be hidden when not in use. LED lighting, three power awnings and a ducted air conditioning system completes the Land Yacht's posh ambiance.

Airstream begins production of the Land Yacht in August. Industry insiders are anticipating that the Land Yacht will cost somewhere in the upper five figures. Nonetheless, with this travel trailer's timeless and comfortable design, these insiders are also expecting the Land Yacht to be a popular choice once it hits the market later this year.

Check out the Airstream Land Yacht on the Airstream website .

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COMMENTS

The Airstream Land Yacht is One Trailer You Have to See
Airstream has an interesting history of building Special Edition models. One of the latest selective models to be conceived - and a departure from its other special trailer predecessors - is the Land Yacht 28, which was introduced in late 2014 and has achieved plenty of attention across the highways of North America.
Land Yacht Special Edition
History of the Land Yacht. One of Airstream's most enduring names, the Land Yacht has been a staple of the Airstream fleet since the 1960's, used always to describe Airstream's most luxurious Travel Trailers. The name comes from the beginnings of the company, from founder Wally Byam's passion for the sea. Wally was an avid camper and ...
Remembering Airstream's fanciest trailer: the Land Yacht
Airstream lived up to this title in 2014 when it debuted what it called "the most luxurious Airstream ever conceived." The special edition model—the Land Yacht 28—boasted three rooms and was designed with the help of Mauro Micheli, head designer at yacht design firm Officina Italiana Design, with cabinetry from the Italian firm Tecnoform.
2004 Airstream Land Yacht Review
Airstream launched its first motorhome in 1979, a unit that pretty much mimicked the classic riveted aluminum body of its trailers. The Land Yacht, however, rolled out in 1989 and came with laminated fiberglass construction; a look that was much more traditional Class A. For 2004, it's available in four floorplans from 26 to 33 feet in length.
A Land Yacht, not just by name
Airstream's benefits from Wally's love in seafaring are many. Sleek construction parallel to the finest yachts, compactness utilizing every nook and cranny for comfortable living and storage. Truly, Airstream is a Land Yacht. Yachts sail the oceans and Airstreams journey on the world's byways and back roads. Aloha!
2015 Airstream Land Yacht 28FB Review
Airstream's collaboration with Riva boat designer, Mauro Micheli, produced what some are calling the sexiest RV on the market - the Land Yacht.Airstream calls it "the most luxurious Airstream ever conceived." Only one Land Yacht floorplan is available - the 28FB. It has an exterior length of 28', exterior width of 8'5.5", interior width of 8'1", exterior height with A/C of ...
Airstream Land Yacht Concept Close to Wally Byam's Heart
That dream is part of the reason why Airstream has revived the Land Yacht concept. From top to bottom, the Land Yacht is designed with the ocean in mind, and is inspired by the world's finest watercraft. Everything from the galley to the bedroom, from the upholstery to the woodwork has a sleek, sophisticated look that evokes quality, luxury ...
Introducing the Airstream Land Yacht
The Airstream Land Yacht is exactly what its name suggests - a land-based beast fitted with the luxuries of a yacht. You can say that it's a marriage of iconic industrial design with Italian flair and style, as the Land Yacht is a joint project of Airstream, Tecnoform S.p.A. and Officinia Italiana Design. It differs from its predecessors in the ...
Quintessential Airstream Land Yacht 28FB Luxury Camping ...
The Land Yacht is the most luxurious Airstream ever conceived. One step inside and you'll want to set sail and never look back!The result of a collaboration ...
Airstream Land Yacht reviews
My Airstream 35' Land Yacht cummins/Allison Freightliner chassis is remarkable. The LP Onan allows for residential propane hookup for months of self sufficient power supply. Add solar and your set for backup power. 50 amp power hookup,interior with solid wood cabinets, wood flooring, dual AC's, dash inverter with new cooling system, massive ...
2016 Airstream Land Yacht 28FB specs and literature guide
Specs for 2016 Airstream - Land Yacht Floorplan: 28FB (Travel Trailer) View 2016 Airstream Land Yacht (Travel Trailer) RVs For Sale Help me find my perfect Airstream Land Yacht RV. Specifications Options Brochures. Price. MSRP. $146,362. MSRP + Destination. $146,362. Currency.
Find complete specifications for Airstream Land Yacht RVs Here
Specs for Airstream Land Yacht View Airstream Land Yacht RVs For Sale Help me find my perfect Airstream Land Yacht RV. Travel Trailer RVs. 2017 Airstream Land Yacht RVs. Number of Floorplans: 1. 2016 Airstream Land Yacht RVs. Number of Floorplans: 1.
2000 Airstream Land Yacht reviews
Reviewed on November 24, 2018. RV reviewed 2000 Airstream Land Yacht 396XL. 4.2. Excellent craftmanship and materials, fit and finish also excellent, cat diesel has plenty of power, the stand out is the little features, generator start and stop switch next to bed as well as stereo controls, all aluminum frame for coach ( our newmar had a huge ...
1999 Land Yacht
1999 Land Yacht. We are looking to purchase a 99 Land Yacht and interested in any pros and cons anyone may have to offer. It has about 71000 miles, leveling jacks, 2 ACs, Onan generator. It is a little ruff around the edges and some water damage from the roof leaking. Ball park value would be appreciated also.
Cruise into the Land Yacht
The Land Yacht is the product of an international collaboration between Airstream, Tecnoform S.p.A., maker of fine cabinetry and the design studio of Officinia Italiana Design. The Land Yacht travel trailers are crafted with quality materials and equipment throughout, including boat-deck flooring, LED panel lighting elements, and Corian ...
Land yacht (automobile)
A land yacht is an informal category of large automobiles. [1] [2] [3] ... Airstream three-axle travel trailer. The "land yacht" description was used in the 1941 film Sullivan's Travels to describe a bus converted with bedrooms, bathroom, and kitchen, or an early recreational vehicle (RV).
2017 Airstream Land Yacht 28 specs and literature guide
Also search nationwide inventory for Land Yacht 28 for sale. Edit Listings MyRVUSA. ... Click here to search for all available Airstream Land Yacht units on RVUSA.com. What is the MSRP for a 2017 Airstream Land Yacht 28? The MSRP for a 2017 Airstream Land Yacht 28 is $146,362.00.